Dublin Ireland: Over 700 tourists robbed in 2014

More than 700 tourists were robbed by muggers and pick-pockets last year, with the majority falling victim in Dublin city centre.

Details were revealed in a report released by the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) which offered help to visitors targeted by thieves. ITAS said pick-pocketing was the most common offence of the 726 crimes perpetrated against tourists, about 52% of incidents reported. The organisation said it also helped eight tourists who were victims of violent attacks. Dublin’s city centre garda stations, particularly Pearse Street and Store Street, continue to refer the majority of the cases (89%) handled by ITAS. Garda stations in counties Wicklow and Kerry also referred a number of victims to the organisation. Most crimes occurred when tourists were sightseeing, shopping and socialising. The majority of crimes referred occurred between 2pm-6pm in Dublin city centre, with the victims mainly female and aged between 17 and 25. Read Article